Respecting local character
Our commitment to sensitive design and heritage
We know how important the character and heritage of Knowle are to local people. Our approach has therefore been shaped not only by the physical features of the site, but also guided by the Knowle Conservation Area Appraisal and the priorities set out in the Knowle, Dorridge and Bentley Heath Neighbourhood Plan, particularly those related to design, landscape, green space, and local character.
A Neighbourhood Plan is a community-written planning document that sets out how the area should evolve. It forms part of the legal planning framework, meaning developers must take its policies into account.
Our approach
A sports pitch and green spaces
The Neighbourhood Plan highlights the importance of protecting green spaces and keeping a soft, natural edge to Knowle. Our design responds to this by creating a new community park on the northern part of the site for nature conservation together with informal and formal recreation.
To make sure the new homes sit comfortably within their surroundings, we are:
- Keeping and strengthening existing hedgerows and mature trees, many of which already define the rural edge of Knowle.
- Improving the canal-side environment, creation of a new canal side walkway and retaining and enhancing existing canal side vegetation.
- Protecting views, protecting the views from Kixley Lane and the open countryside beyond by focusing development on the southern part of the site and creating a green link between Knowle and the canal.
Heritage and character
Historic identity
The Neighbourhood Plan also places strong emphasis on protecting Knowle’s historic identity. Several heritage assets are close to the site, including the Knowle Conservation Area, The Manor House, Golden End Cottage , Far End Cottage and Knowle Parish Church.
To ensure that we respect local heritage we are:
- Retaining character of Kenilworth Road, through retention of existing hedgerows and trees and respecting existing building lines.
- Preserving views towards Knowle, including views of the church tower, by leaving the northern part of the site open.
- Limiting buildings height to match the general height of surrounding homes and the Conservation Area.
